Bridges, sewage, subdivisions

WINNIE— Trinity Bay Conservation District met last week, discussing a new project, the Hankamer Sewer Plant and more.  

TBCD met on Wednesday, Nov. 12, where General Manager Jerry Shadden gave a brief update on the two bridges TBCD is hoping to build on U.S. 69 and Texas 124.  

In total, the bridges are expected to cost $11 million, which includes all costs associated with the projects.  

The Texas Department of Transportation received a 30% design submission from LJA Engineering, and TBCD is hoping to review it with TxDOT by the end of the month.  

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality conducted an inspection of the Hankamer Sewer Plant.  

Shadden said there were only a few violations, including sludge in some areas and a few smaller items, but those items have been fixed, and documentation was sent back to TCEQ.  

Shadden added that the plant is having some issues meeting the permit requirements regarding ammonia, but LJA Engineering got involved for detailed testing to see what it would take to get the plant running again.  

The board approved an agreement with Dutton Lake, LLC, to provide sewer service to 99 homes on FM 1663 and Ledoux Road in Winnie at a cost of $120,000.  

Shadden explained that LJA conducted a capacity study, which showed that two sewer pump stations needed to be upgraded. The $120,000 will fund those stations.  

As for bond projects, the water tank design was approved by TCEQ, but the project is being held up by the sale of the bonds.  

Board Attorney Kate Leverett said TCEQ has become more stringent on requirements for the bond. Engineers and the financial advisor are sending required information, but the bond remains under review.  

Once approved by TCEQ, the money will be available in two months, pending approval from various other offices.